Immigration and Integration in the European Union

Policy brief

Immigration into the EU and the integration of those who have immigrated constitute two multifaceted and highly complex policy areas. These topics feature prominently in current political debates, which have been taking place at all levels within European society and governments. These debates have also been held within the centre-right European people's party (EPP) and are playing a prominent role in many election campaigns.

There has been a need to illuminate the ongoing debate on immigration and integration, inform national and European policies and highlight areas of EU-wide importance. In January 2012, the CES and its member foundations therefore published Opening the Door? Immigration and Integration in the European Union. Written by 24 academics and policy experts, this book covers 13 EU countries and one region, as well as the EU itself. Most of the authors of these country and regional chapters were appointed by CES member foundations; the remaining authors were appointed by the CES.

This policy brief is entirely based on this book. It offers policy recommendations for the EU and its Member States. It suggests expanding legal avenues for migration so as to meet labour and skill shortages in the EU. Recognising that illegal immigration undermines the rule of law, the Member States and the EU should continue to exchange information and examples of good practice in tackling illegal immigration. Efforts should be strengthened to develop a common European asylum system to address the differences in asylum seeker and refugee protection among individual Member States. In addition, policies for circular migration from North Africa should be implemented.

This policy brief also provides policy recommendations concerning the integration of immigrants. The EU should work with Member States to increase the employment rate of legal immigrants and to encourage their civic and political participation. Member States should increase efforts to implement EU legislation on preventing racial discrimination in the workplace and providing equal access to services. The problem of second- and third-generation immigrants, who often feel alienated from society, needs to be addressed. Finally, Member States should work with the EU to prevent the emergence of parallel societies based on ethnicity or religion that contravene the laws and central norms of the host country.